Manchester City football (soccer) players, one of the top clubs in the UK, wear compression stockings after practice.  Club boss Roberto Mancini said the organization has invested vast amounts of money in sports science, and wearing compression stockings could give their players the extra edge needed to win.

Dr. Sam Erith, the club’s sports science chief, said “There is evidence to show immersing yourself in cold water following exercise can reduce the symptoms of muscle damage. Once our guys are out of the bath we advise them to wear compression socks for the evening to help promote a favorable blood flow.”